There has been an “unprecedented influx of renewables on the grid”. Credit: lunopark via Shutterstock.

A large majority of the EU’s energy production so far this year has come from sources free of CO₂ emissions, revealed data from an industry body.

Almost 75% of the EU’s electrical production came from emissions-free sources from January to June 2024, said the trade body, which represents the interests of the European electricity industry.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Related Company Profiles

View all

Of the total figure, 50% came from renewable sources such as wind and solar, and 24% from nuclear, the body said in a public statement released on Monday.

The latest figures are a noticeable increase on the 68% share seen in 2023.

The body said that the main reasons behind this “remarkable result were an unprecedented influx of renewables on the grid, combined with the stabilisation of the nuclear fleet”.

“The pace of change is impressive,” said secretary-general of Eurelectric Kristian Ruby.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

He added that the figures “document that the decarbonisation efforts of electricity companies are years ahead of any other sector”.

The EU constructed 56GW of new solar power capacity in 2023 and 16GW of new wind capacity across the entire region.

However, electricity demand within the bloc has also decreased, making it easier for solar and wind to provide more power.

The move to renewables may also face some financial hurdles over the next few years, as energy investors begin to seek better returns.

Just last week, BP’s CEO, Murray Auchincloss, reportedly initiated a hiring freeze and suspended offshore wind projects, according to sources at the company, as he places the focus on oil and gas to boost revenues.

Auchincloss appears to be bowing to shareholder discontent over the returns available on non-hydrocarbon production and the switch to green energy.

A spokesperson told a UK-based news provider that BP is still committed to becoming an integrated energy company.